Multi-Input Trigger Circuit for Asynchronous Event Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional test and measurement instruments, such as oscilloscopes, are limited in recognizing input signal transitions in logic OR trigger mode, failing to generate triggers when any input transitions to logic HI regardless of other inputs' states, and are unsatisfactory for users requiring more flexible triggering capabilities.
Innovation Solution
The development of new methods and trigger circuits that generate a trigger signal in response to every occurrence of specified events, including rising or falling edges, setup and hold violations, and other signal activities across multiple inputs, enabling asynchronous and highly configurable triggering behavior.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional logic OR trigger mode is used, then the instrument triggers on logical combinations of Boolean words in input signals, but it fails to recognize every input signal transition to logic HI regardless of other inputs' states
Solution Approach 1:
The trigger system is segmented into multiple independent event activity detectors, each configured to detect specific trigger events on individual inputs. Each detector operates independently and generates a logic signal for its detected events, allowing the system to recognize every occurrence of specified trigger events across multiple inputs without requiring complex logical combinations.
Solution Approach 2:
The trigger system dynamically configures event activity detectors to produce logic signals in response to every occurrence of events meeting trigger event specifications. The system adapts to different trigger event types (rising edges, falling edges, setup and hold violations) and combines logic signals dynamically using logical OR circuits to generate trigger signals, providing flexible and reliable triggering capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods of triggering a test and measurement instrument having a plurality of inputs include the step of generating a trigger signal in response to every occurrence of any one of a plurality of specified trigger events. A first specified trigger event occurs in at least a first one of the inputs and a second specified trigger event occurs in at least a second one of the plurality of inputs. A specified trigger event may include at least one selected input from the plurality of inputs and a selected activity type. Some methods include configuring each of a plurality of event activity detectors to produce a pulse in a logic signal in response to every occurrence of one of the specified trigger events. The plurality of logic signals are combined in a logical OR circuit to generate the trigger signal. Trigger circuits configured according to these methods are also disclosed.